The Caves of Civita in Sextantio, Italy

The Caves of Civita is an extraordinary hotel where rock mixes with hospitality to create an atmosphere that’s far from the traditional concept of luxury. The citizens of it’s Sassi de Matera location are modern day cave men and women as they enjoy the rocky enclosures of their cave dwellings. Created by Margareta Isabel Berg, Daniele Khilgren, Spa Progetti and Maurizio Sarcuni, the hotel’s design was inspired by these homes where it is surrounded by breathtaking vistas overlooking the Gravina River and sits opposite to the dramatic landscape of the Murgia Park and its Rock Churches in Sextantio, Italy. It has eighteen rooms in these huge caves that spread over three levels; they are all connected to a staircase and a system of private terraces that are accessible through individual rooms. The furniture has no decorations and is made from wood using ancient techniques while the linen is hand sewn from flax cloth. No televisions or mini bars exist in the rooms to agree with the concept, but each room is equipped with modern heating systems with under floor heating, air conditioning and internet connection. Guests are treated to organic jams, cheese, cakes, biscuits and salami products in the Rocky Church. During the evening, they can enjoy wine tastings around the huge stone carved fireplace.

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